On October 9-10, 2024, TSS attended the Canadian Semiconductor Symposium (CSS2024), A key event focused on strengthening and expanding Canada's role in the global semiconductor industry. Co-organized by FABrIC and CMC Microsystems, the symposium brought together leaders from industry, government, and academia to discuss the future of semiconductor technology and innovation in Canada. This event kickstarted CHIPS Month Canada 2024.
Key Themes and takeaways
Global Competitiveness & Canadian Opportunities. The opening keynote by Amy Karam set the tone by highlighting the critical need for Canada to adapt to global geopolitical challenges in the semiconductor space. She emphasized the importance of embracing new approaches to research, development, and commercialization to position Canada as a competitive player on the global stage.
Canada’s Semiconductor Landscape. Kofi Kobia from ISED provided an overview of Canada's current standing in the semiconductor ecosystem and shared insights into where the industry is headed. This set the stage for deeper discussions on government initiatives supporting the sector, led by representatives from Export Development Canada (EDC), ISED, and IRAP.
Core Technologies & Emerging Innovations. Throughout the symposium, participants engaged in sessions exploring key technological areas like photonics, compound semiconductors, and MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems). Industry experts such as Simon Ayotte from TeraXion and Mike Berry from Celestica shared their expertise on the current state of these technologies, alongside future trends and opportunities for growth.
Quantum Technologies and the Innovation Pipeline. Quantum computing and technologies were a significant focus on Day 1, with speakers like David Asgeirsson from Xanadu providing a glimpse into how Canada can further its lead in this rapidly evolving field. Discussions also revolved around how early-stage companies and innovators can navigate the journey from research to commercialization, with panelists like Jerry Zhai (CEO of MaxEpic Semiconductor) sharing success stories and lessons learned.
Developing Skills for Canada’s Semiconductor Sector. A critical part of building a robust semiconductor ecosystem is talent. Experts such as Jeff McNamee from SECTR and Sophia Chan-Combrink from ventureLAB highlighted the need for specialized training and re-skilling programs to develop a highly qualified workforce capable of meeting the demands of the fast-growing industry.
FABrIC: Accelerating Canada's Semiconductor Ecosystem. On Day 2, Lynn McNeil, Vice President of FABrIC, shared exciting updates about the FABrIC initiative and how it aims to accelerate the development of Canada's semiconductor capabilities. The focus was on creating a connected ecosystem that supports innovation and commercialization through collaboration and resource-sharing.
Challenges & Opportunities in Intellectual Property (IP) and Funding. Intellectual property (IP) management and funding are essential pieces of the innovation puzzle. Several sessions explored the challenges Canadian firms face in protecting their innovations, with IP experts like Jarrod Hicks from IP Ontario offering practical advice. Meanwhile, speakers like Yuri Navarro from ventureLAB and Glen Crossley from McMaster University demystified the Canadian funding landscape, providing valuable insights into how innovators can access resources at various stages of their journey.
Can Canada Re-shore Semiconductor Manufacturing? A major highlight of the event was the keynote by Normand Bourbonnais, President of Technum Quebec, who tackled the big question of whether Canada can re-shore semiconductor manufacturing. His keynote provided a thoughtful analysis of the current global supply chain disruptions and what it would take for Canada to establish its own manufacturing base.
A Bright Future for Canada’s Semiconductor Ecosystem
The 2024 Canadian Semiconductor Symposium underscored that while Canada faces challenges in terms of competition and geopolitical risks, it also has significant opportunities to establish itself as a leader in key areas like quantum computing, photonics, and advanced manufacturing.
As the event drew to a close, it was clear that the future of semiconductors in Canada is bright, with strong government support, a vibrant innovation ecosystem, and a growing pool of talented professionals driving the industry forward. Networking opportunities, including the joint reception celebrating CHIPS Month, also allowed attendees to foster meaningful connections and collaborations that will continue to push Canada’s semiconductor sector ahead!
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